Employers’ 7 common mistakes in dealing with performance issues…

There are genuine poor performance issues that an employer is required to address with an employee. However, a failure to adhere to the required process, and act reasonably, sees employers caught out and facing grievances on a regular basis. From my experience the 7 most common mistakes employers make are:

1.  Failing to deal with matters early enough…

Delaying dealing with issues just makes them worse. Point out fairly the reasonable standards that are expected, and help the employee get to them.

2.  Failing to undertake a performance improvement process…

This should be to improve the employee’s performance, not manage them out of the organisation. 

3.  Failing to allow for support persons…

Employees have the right to have a support person or representative help them through the process and be present and speak for them during performance meetings. 

4.  Failing to record the outcomes of meetings…

Notes should be taken about what was discussed, and what the employee and employer have agreed to do in order to rectify the performance issues. Recording the meeting reduces misunderstandings.

5.  Failing to provide support or training…

This may include training courses, mentoring, providing examples of the standard of work expected, and other resources related to performance of their role. Dealing with untrue claims to experience and skills is a disciplinary issue dealt with separately.

6.  Failing to measure and document progress…

Detailed notes should be kept regarding performance at the beginning, during, and at the end of the improvement process. Keep the employee informed of progress or lack of progress throughout the process. 

7.  Failing to act in good faith…

This covers all meetings and actions that an employer may undertake (or omit) during the performance process. Including the failure to provide the adequate support, not providing adequate time for the employee to improve and having unrealistic or inconsistent expectations for their employees.

Performance issues are one of the most common employment issues employers encounter. It is vital the performance improvement process is carried out correctly to avoid grievances for disadvantage or unfair dismissal.

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